The name “Britain” (or “Great Britain”) refers to the countries of England, Scotland and Wales located on the main island
of Britain. To include Northern Ireland, the correct name is the “United Kingdom.” The United Kingdom is the official unified
entity, governed by the central parliament in London and (nominally) by Queen Elizabeth II. However, political boundaries
are becoming increasingly blurred by the European Union. Member countries are subject to E.U. rules and regulations, and regions
are now being encouraged in their efforts at self-determination, with the result that Scotland and Wales - historically uneasy
with what they saw as an English parliament (and Queen) in London - now have their own national assemblies and a degree of
autonomy. But the legacy of London remains, and when the British talk about “this country” they usually mean Britain.